Flu Guide: Natural Remedies & Vaccine
- Alex Kelly
- Aug 16
- 15 min read
The flu is one of the most common respiratory infections, and most times can easily be treated at home.
How to Treat Respiratory Illnesses at Home
Cough and Congestion:
Our body produces more mucus when sick to help trap pathogens, while coughing and sneezing helps to expel them.
When you take a decongestant, you are drying up the mucus that is designed to trap and expel pathogens. Instead, focus on thinning the mucus so it can easily be expelled.
Nebulize Saline to help loosen up mucus
Some people DIY saline: ½ tsp of sea salt in 8oz purified water
Technically not recommended as it can cause contamination in the nebulizer, but if you decide to go this route make sure you are using purified water NOT tap water.
Set Up Humidifiers
Maintaining humidity in the range of 40-60% can also reduce transmission of pathogens.
STAY HYDRATED, take steam showers, use saline drops or mist in the nose, and REST.
Homeopathy & Tinctures for Congestion
Pyrogenium for Nasal Congestion
Camphora for the onset of the common cold
Oscillococcinum for FLU like symptoms (2yrs and up)
Hyland’s Mucus + Cold Relief (6mo+)
Kids Cold Crush Genexa (4yr-11)
Earthley Feel Better Fast - ALEXK10 for 10% off website
Briar Rose for Respiratory Health
Briar Rose is a natural form of medicine called gemmotherapy, and is made from plant buds. It supports a healthy sinus passage, eyes, and throat, therefore useful against: runny nose and congestion, ear aches and infections, sore throat, sinus infections, headaches caused by allergies
It can be used as a preventative 2-3x a week, or 2-3x a day when battling active sickness
Infants: 5-8 drops; 3-8yrs: 15-20 drops; older kids/adults: 25-50 drops
Chest Rubs
Manual Percussion
If your child has chest congestion, you can try manual percussion. This is done by cupping your hand and clapping the child's back to help loosen mucous and move it to the larger airways to allow it to be more easily coughed up.
Non-Medicated Cough Syrups
Earthley Cough Be Gone (6mo+)
Medicated Cough Syrups
It is best to avoid cough suppressants for the same reasons to avoid decongestants. Coughing is how the body removes pathogens, so taking a suppressant can prolong the illness. However, if one becomes necessary due to lack of sleep or unable to eat/drink, Genexa is a good brand.
Cough suppressants are typically not recommended for babies. The FDA advises against OTC cough and cold medicines in infants under 2, while others recommend it against children under 4.
Homeopathic & Tincture Treatments
Oscillococcinum for FLU like symptoms (2yrs and up) MOST COMMON FOR FLU
Hyland’s Cough and Cold (2yr+)
Forces of Nature Cold & Flu (3yr+)
Spongia for croupy cough
Cold Calm for the common cold (3yr+)
Kids Cold Crush Genexa (4yr-11)
Stannum Metallicum for a WET COUGH
Gallicum Acidum for a WET COUGH
Camphora for the onset of the common cold
Earthley Cough Be Gone - ALEXK10 for 10% off website
Dr. Green Life BRONCHIAL Calm for Kids
Herbal Cough Support
Common Thyme: Research has shown that thyme helps with lung spasms. In this case best taken in the form of a tea or tincture
Thyme tincture: Herb Pharm
Wild Cherry Bark: Wild cherry bark helps open up the lower respiratory system, and move mucus up while drying it out. It has calming and :nervine properties, which can help ease coughing spells, especially at night. It is also cooling to sore and inflamed tissues in the sinuses and throat. You can take this as a tea, tincture, or make your own cherry bark syrup.
Mullein: Mullein leaf tea or syrup can help relieve inflammation and coughing spells by helping move stuck congestion. This is a great herb for lung issues, specifically.
Mullein blend tincture: Herb pharm
Onion Method for Coughs:
Slicing up an onion and placing it next to your bed while sleeping can be a powerful decongestant by opening up nasal passages and making it easier to breathe.
Slice up an onion, place in a plastic bag, put feet in plastic bag, and cover with a sock overnight. The feet are reflex’s for the chest, head, and abdomen, so this is especially helpful for coughing, congestion, and head colds.
Hydration
Hydration is so important when sick, especially if experiencing fever, vomiting, or diarrhea. Add in electrolytes as needed. If having extended vomiting or diarrhea without adequate re-hydration, call your pediatrician. You want to avoid severe dehydration.
Rest
Your body heals when it sleeps, so if you follow a strict sleep schedule don’t hesitate to throw it out. Let your kiddo nap longer than usual, go to bed earlier if needed, sleep in, etc. Resting allows the body to focus all its energy on healing, cleansing toxins, and immune support. If a fever or cough is keeping your child up at night, that would be a time where you could consider medication if you feel that their body needs to rest and reset.
How to Treat Fevers At Home
What is a Fever?
A fever is a natural response to an infection or illness. It is a good sign, because it means that your body is fighting off the infection. The increased body temperature from a fever boosts the performance of immune cells and induces stress on pathogens and infected cells, providing a strong immune defense.
Why Let a Fever Do Its Job
Since fevers are the body’s natural way of fighting off illnesses, reducing a fever can actually prolong the illness or infection. Fevers also trigger immune cells to recruit and activate T-cells, which coordinate long-term “adaptive” immune responses such as antibody production (2). By letting a fever run its course, you are also providing better protection for future illnesses.
How to Take a Temperature
(excerpt from Natalie's amazing fever guide)
The most accurate way to check a temperature is with a rectal thermometer, though it’s also the most invasive. This method is typically recommended for children under 2 years old, or until they’re able to properly use an oral thermometer.
Oral thermometers are the next most reliable option.
After that, accuracy decreases in this order: axillary (underarm), tympanic (ear), and finally temporal (forehead) thermometers.
Although temporal thermometers became widely used in 2020 because of their convenience, they are often less reliable because external factors like room temperature and skin moisture can interfere with the reading.
How High is Too High?
Parents are told that fevers over 104F need to go to the ER, but that is not always the case. If the child is relatively comfortable with a temperature of 104F, you can continue to support their healing at home. It is not uncommon for a child's temperature to reach 104F and the hypothalamus typically prevents the temperature from going any higher. While each person's body is different, a fever up to 106F is usually harmless. It is not until 108F that brain damage is possible, which is considered hyperthermia.
If you decide to come to the ER, make sure that you give a fever reducer first. At the ER, your child will receive fever reducers if they are still febrile, then the cause of illness will be investigated. Viral illnesses will typically respond to medicine. A temperature of 102F vs 104F does not change the course of action in the ER.
Febrile Seizures
Febrile seizures are caused by sudden temperature changes (example: temp going from 99.4 to 101.9 in minutes), NOT by the high temperature itself. This is why it is not recommended to put a fevering child in a cold bath. Instead, put them in a warm bath and let them sit in the water until it cools off. Read more about febrile seizures, what to do, and how to prevent.
Before Heading to the ER
If you determine that the ER is necessary despite trying natural remedies - medicate first. Do not wait to medicate your child because you want the doctor “to see how high it is.” If the temperature goes down before arriving to the ER, you may save yourself a trip and money.
When & How to Medicate
Medicating a fevering child is up to parents’ discretion as a last resort after supportive care. You can try to reduce the fever if your child is unable to eat, drink, or sleep due to discomfort from the fever.
Ibuprofen (Motrin) or Acetaminophen (Tylenol)
Acetaminophen (Tylenol) lowers glutathione stores - an antioxidant very important in immune function. By lowering this antioxidant, we are prolonging the illness.
Ibuprofen (Motrin) does lower glutathione, but not to the extent that Tylenol does. If choosing to medicate, try Ibuprofen first (in children over 6 months old). If the fever is still not going down, and you think you may need to head to the ER, then you can try Acetaminophen as a last resort.
Peppermint Oil
Peppermint oil can be used as a fever suppressant. Dilute 1-2 drops with 1/2-1 tsp coconut oil and apply to soles of feet and spine. It can also be used for headaches. Apply directly to temples, forehead, behind ears, back of neck whenever you have a headache (if using on child dilute; or if adult has sensitive skin).
Always use your discretion, and consult with your trusted provider before using oils. The age of use when it comes to essential oils is very divided, even amongst trusted medical establishments. John Hopkins Medical does not recommend the use of peppermint oil under 30 months, and CHOP does not recommend any essential oils under the age of 3. Whereas our pediatrician is comfortable with it at almost any age, as long as its properly diluted.
Wet Sock Trick
Sleeping in wet socks signals your body to dilate the blood vessels in your feet resulting in blood being moved to and warming, the feet. This increases circulation throughout the entire body. This cycle should continue throughout the night and helps boost the immune system and reduce body temperature - making it great for fevers. You can do this by placing damp cotton socks on your child's feet followed by thick wool socks.
Magnesium Chloride Bath
Give a LUKEWARM (not hot or cold!!!)) bath with magnesium chloride flakes. This is great to do before nap/bed, followed by the wet sock trick, and snuggles.
Cool Compresses on Pulse Points
Apply a cool (not ice-cold) cloth to the wrists, neck, or behind the knees to help lower core temperature gently.
Potatoes and/or Onions in Socks
The theory behind placing potatoes or onions in socks for fevers comes from traditional and folk medicine, where these vegetables are believed to have the ability to "draw out toxins" or "pull heat" from the body.
This practice is often rooted in the idea that the soles of the feet are connected to various organs and systems, as suggested by reflexology and some forms of traditional Chinese medicine.
Onions, in particular, contain sulfur compounds with known antimicrobial properties, which some believe may help fight infection. When sliced and placed against the skin, these vegetables are thought to absorb illness-causing agents or reduce body heat through the feet, offering relief from fever symptoms.
Snuggles and Skin to Skin
Your nervous system regulates your child's nervous system, so skin to skin sleeping and snuggling are great ways to comfort your child through fevers and sickness. We have had MANY fevers in our home where the only comfort measures that were needed were rest, hydration, and snuggles!
Breastmilk
If you are still nursing, this is one of the best things you can do for your sick child!! Breastmilk changes when baby is sick to give what they need. If you are pumping, you can swipe some of their saliva onto your nipple to help signal the formulation.
Homeopathy/Herbal Pain & Fever "Meds"
Dr. Green Mom's Natureprofen (Infants-Kids) ALEXKELLY gives 10%
Dr. Green Mom's Temper Tamer (Infants-Kids) ALEXKELLY gives 10%
Kids Relief Pain & Fever (6mo+)
Earthley Feel Better Fast ALEXK10 for 10%
Rowe Casa's Children's Relief ALEX20 gives 20%
Genexa Flu Fix (4yr+)
Additional Homeopathy Options
Use 30C potency in most home settings
Use with
High, sudden fever with a hot, red face
Pupils may be dilated
Throbbing headache, very sensitive to light or noise
Skin feels hot, but hands and feet may be cold
Dose: 1 dose (2 pellets) every 10 mins for 30 mins. Repeat if needed
Use with
Sudden onset fever, especially after cold wind exposure
Child is anxious, restless, maybe fearful
Often the very first stage of illness
Useful within the first 24 hours
1 dose (2 pellets) every 10 minutes for 2-3 doses
Use with
Milder, slow-rising fever
Early stage of illness with vague symptoms (slight fatigue, flushing)
Not as intense as Belladonna or Aconite
Great for when you're not sure what remedy to give yet
Use with
Slow-onset fever with weakness, heaviness, droopy eyelids
Dull, tired, wants to lie still
Common for flu or viral fevers
Chills up the spine, no thirst
Give 1 dose (2 pellets) 3-4x per day until 80% better
Additional Herbal Support
Elderberry: support the immune system, shortens illness duration, relieves fever symptoms
Yarrow: a diaphoretic herb that can help the body sweat out a fever, anti-inflammatory
Catnip: a diaphoretic herb that can help the body sweat out a fever and rid the body of toxins
Lemon balm: reduces fever and anti-inflammatory
Fennel seed: antibacterial and anti-inflammatory
Echinacea: supports the immune system and can shorten illness duration
Always check with a trusted practitioner or herbalist before using herbs in children
Lymphatic Massage
The function of the lymph system is to filter out toxins, waste, and pathogens, house immune cells (like lymphocytes) that fight infection, and transport immune cells where they’re needed. If the lymphatic system is sluggish or congested, it can delay immune response, impair detox pathways and increase inflammation leading to longer illness duration. Lymph moves through the body by muscular movement. When we're ill, we're typically not moving as much leading to stagnant lymph. Adding in a dry brushing routine or manual lymph massage can greatly improve lymph flow. Here's a video showing where to massage major lymph nodes to allow for optimal drainage
Support the Immune System
Click here for my REALISTIC guide
ALL ABOUT THE FLU VACCINE
"36,000 deaths a year" Fact or Fiction?
Each year in the United States, influenza leads to an estimated 100,000 hospitalizations and roughly 1,500 reported deaths. However, the CDC suggests that the actual number of flu-related deaths is closer to 36,000 annually.
This wide gap comes from the way flu deaths are tracked and reported.
The primary source of influenza data is the Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report (MMWR), which combines flu and pneumonia deaths into one category. Since most cases of pneumonia are bacterial in origin and not directly caused by influenza, this figure can be misleading. While some bacterial pneumonia cases may be triggered by influenza (especially in older adults) it’s impossible to know exactly how many. As a result, the media and even some medical groups often state that “36,000 people die from the flu each year, most of them infants and the elderly.” This paints an inaccurate picture, suggesting the flu alone kills far more people in these groups than it actually does.
The National Center for Health Statistics, unlike the MMWR, reports flu deaths separately from pneumonia-related ones. Together with the American Lung Association, they published a 2015 analysis that looked at flu mortality across age groups over 25 years. From 1999-2013 their findings showed and average of:
36 flu only deaths in children >5
28 flu only deaths in children 5-14
83 flu only deaths in ages 15-44
26 flu only deaths in ages 45-64
1,002 flu only deaths in ages 65+
Another study of the severe 2003–2004 flu season helps illustrate the true impact of influenza. That year, which had unusually high infection and death rates, saw 153 pediatric deaths reported in 40 states. If we added in the remaining states, the number would be about 200 deaths in children under 18—a figure far lower than the thousands often cited. Similarly, reviews published by the Cochrane Collaboration have confirmed that around 1,000 flu-related deaths occur each year across all age groups, and they note that the CDC’s 36,000 estimate includes all forms of pneumonia, not just those linked to influenza.
Flu Vaccine and Pregnancy
Pregnant women face a higher risk from influenza compared to the general adult population, and the infection itself carries a small possibility of miscarriage or preterm labor. Because of this, health authorities recommend flu vaccination during pregnancy. But how strong is the safety research behind this recommendation?
One controversial study suggested that the flu vaccine could actually increase the chance of miscarriage. Until 2010, no flu vaccine had been specifically approved by the FDA for use during pregnancy because safety trials had not been conducted. At that time, package inserts clearly stated this lack of testing, and the vaccines were labeled as pregnancy risk category C—meaning animal studies had shown potential risks, but human data were absent.
In more recent years, some animal and limited human research has suggested a level of safety. As a result, several flu vaccines are now listed as pregnancy risk category B, with package inserts noting that studies in animals (such as rabbits and rats) did not reveal harm to developing fetuses. Still, these inserts also emphasize that adequate human trials are lacking, and some explicitly caution that it is not known whether flu vaccination could cause fetal harm or affect fertility. They recommend use during pregnancy only when clearly necessary.
Expectant mothers should have open discussions with their healthcare providers, weighing the risks of influenza against the potential risks of vaccination. While influenza does pose added risks in pregnancy, it is not something to fear constantly. For example, the largest study to date tracked nearly 50,000 pregnant women over five flu seasons. Only nine were hospitalized with influenza, and every one of them recovered without complications.
For breastfeeding women, vaccine safety is less certain as well. Package inserts generally state that it is unknown whether vaccine components pass into breast milk, advising caution. However, most medical professionals believe there is no significant risk - Dr. Robert W. Sears agrees with this as well. He states, even if tiny traces of viral material or preservatives were to pass through breast milk, they are unlikely to cause harm.
I love the way Dr. Robert W. Sears breaks down these next questions, in a very non-judgemental way. The following Is directly from his book, The Vaccine Book.
Some Reasons People May Choose to Get the Vaccine
Theoretically, high-risk groups (the elderly and those with chronic medical problems) stand to benefit most from the flu vaccine, since catching the flu is more likely to cause severe disease and possibly death in these groups. Infants in the first two years of life are also at slightly higher risk than older kids and healthy adults. Healthy people who live with someone in a high-risk group are often vaccinated so the high-risk family member is theoretically less likely to catch the disease. People who have suffered a difficult course of the flu in the past often get the flu vaccine to help them avoid getting it again.
If the primary wage earner in the family catches the flu and has to miss work for several days, this can create a financial burden. If a child has two working parents, one will have to miss work if the child catches the flu. Even though the flu is rarely fatal in children, it can create complications that require hospitalization. Getting a flu shot every year decreases this chance.
Severe side effects from the vaccine are rare. Research has shown that preventing the flu decreases the chance of ear infections. This may be a good reason for kids with recurrent ear infections to get the shot.
Some Reasons People May Choose Not to Get the Vaccine
Some parents are reluctant to give their young babies, and themselves, a flu shot because of the high incidence of flu-like symptoms. Although such reactions aren't an actual flu infection, the perception of having fever and body aches for a few days seems little different. Plus, the risk of febrile seizures in children under two is a concern.
The flu shot is the least effective of all vaccines. According to the CDC website, the shot has had an average efficacy of about 40 percent over the past fourteen years; one year it was only 10 percent effective.
The theoretical benefits discussed in the above section haven't been verified by research. Some studies have shown that the flu vaccine is less effective in the elderly compared to young adults, and research has failed to prove that the vaccine works in infants and toddlers at all. A large study by the Cochrane Review concluded that there isn't enough research yet to prove that the vaccine works for those under two years of age, and current research has demonstrated that it is only minimally effective in the elderly.
Furthermore, research has not proven that the vaccine prevents transmission of the disease. The main benefit seems to be that it reduces disease severity in those who catch the germ, but they still catch the germ and can pass it to others.
Breastfeeding mothers who stay at home typically view their babies as less susceptible to catching illnesses like the flu, and they are right. The number of infant deaths from the flu each year is very low. While these deaths are tragic, some parents view the risk as low enough for them to decline the shot. Some pregnant women forgo the shot due to its lack of safety research and chemical content, especially those brands with mercury.
The flu shot has more chemicals than most shots. Exposing infants and children to these chemicals may worry some parents. The flu is less likely to cause hospitalization in children over age two. Some parents don't feel it's worth getting a shot every year beyond toddlerhood. Parents know they can treat their kids with an antiviral medication if they do catch the flu, so they may feel safer about the disease. This medicine, however, is mainly indicated for high-risk groups in whom the flu is likely to be more severe.
Options to Consider
Choose a mercury-free vaccine. Although, most flu vaccines now are free of mercury.
Detox before and after receiving the vaccine
Sources:
Robert W. Sears The Vaccine Book
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